Over-the-counter birth control is here

The first over-the-counter birth control pill in the U.S. is on the shelves.

Why it matters: Buying the pill without a prescription is a "game changer in terms of access," Axios' April Rubin writes. The role of contraception has become more vital with restrictions like Arkansas' abortion ban following the Supreme Court's decision to end the federal right to abortion.

• It's more effective than other over-the-counter methods, such as condoms.

State of play: Opill is available at stores including Walmart, Target, Walgreens and CVS. It can also be purchased directly from Opill's website or on Amazon.

Yes, but: The out-of-pocket cost of Opill — about $20 for a month's supply or $50 for three months — could still be a barrier.

Zoom out: Contraceptive pills are available without a prescription in more than 100 countries.

• The FDA approved Opill in 2023.